Nintendo Download Highlights: 12.08.2016

The weekend is almost here, but before we get there we of course have the week’s Nintendo Download. Read on for our higlights of this week, which feature the return of some of Nintendo’s most well-known franchises:

Wii U Virtual Console

Metroid: Other M – $19.99 – After the Metroid Prime series, Nintendo returned to the franchise’s third-person roots with Other M. While the game has been remembered by many for its somewhat divisive story and lengthy cutscenes, it was still well received at launch, with its design and gameplay praised by many. We called it outstanding in our original review, saying that “if you put your assumptions to the side and enjoy the game for what it is, you’ll find a very exciting and at times challenging action game, complemented by a heaping dose of cinematic flair that Nintendo has never been known for, and an intriguing, twisty story. Other M may not be what everyone expected or wanted, but it’s still a great game in its own right, certain to be debated, critiqued and celebrated for years to come.” Truer words have not been spoken.

Fire Emblem: Shadow Dragon – $9.99 – The DS entry in the series was actually a remake of the original Famicom game, which was never released outside of Japan. Other than perhaps in its story (which was a little dated at the time), it’s unlikely that you would realize that this was actually a remake of an 18 year old game, as it successfully made use the DS’s dual screens and built on the excellent Game Boy Advance games that western gamers had already been enjoying. If you’ve finished Fire Emblem Fates, now could be a great time to go back to the roots of the series.

3DS Retail

Animal Crossing: New Leaf – Welcome Amiibo – $19.99 – The Welcome Amiibo edition of the game is an updated version of the base game that has been out since 2012. It includes everything that was in the game at release and comes with the latest major update already included on the game card, alongside Amiibo support and a free Amiibo card to get you started. This is essentially a repackaging of the game that is already available (with an added Amiibo card), so there’s no need for fans who already own it to rush out and buy this version. With the latest update introducing a host of new features though, this is a good opportunity for those who missed out on it to give it a try.

While many of the new titles released this week are less notable, it’s also worth mentioning that My Nintendo is currently celebrating the Legend of Zelda series. It’s offering discounts on digital games and there is also a commemorative 30th anniversary Home Menu theme for Nintendo 3DS or 2DS systems up for grabs.